Impact of rearing Rajasri birds on the livelihood and nutritional security of BPL families in Northern Telangana state

Under Rastriya Krishi Vikasa Yojana of Government of India, an improved variety for backyard i.e. Rajasri birds were distributed among the rural farmers in Karimnagar district of Telangana to improve their livelihood and nutritional security through backyard rearing. In the present study, the Rajasri birds achieved sexual maturity at the age of 165 days with an average body weight of 1300–1400 grams under scavenging conditions. The average annual egg production/bird was 165 with an average egg weight of45-55g. Less mortality rate was observed in Rajasri under scavenging conditions. The results revealed a significant increase in subsidiary income @ Rs 8950/-per family/annum by sale of eggs and male birds and also noticed significant increase in consumption of eggs and meat among below poverty line (BPL) families. Moreover, rearing of Rajasri birds enhanced the confidence levels of poor farmers and rural women by generating income source for themselves.